Berman goes negative on Sherman with new website

Rep. Howard Berman's campaign threw a sharp punch at the Democratic congressman's rival with the launch Tuesday of BradShermanfacts.com.

The two veteran Democrats are vying for the same San Fernando Valley district seat this fall in one of the most expensive, widely watched -- and increasingly contentious -- House races in the nation.

Berman, of Valley Village, has seen some major changes to his campaign since finishing 10 percentage points behind Brad Sherman, of Sherman Oaks, in the June 5 primary.

Berman's brother and longtime political consultant, Michael Berman, has stepped down from overseeing strategy, although he still is involved in the campaign. Brandon Hall, who shared campaign oversight with Michael Berman during the primary, recently has taken the reins, Hall has confirmed.